Cllr David Williams announced as CCN’s new health and social care spokesman

Cllr David Williams, the leader of Hertfordshire County Council, has been named the County Council Network’s new spokesman for health and social care.

He takes over from Cllr Colin Noble, who CCN would like to thank for his efforts as spokesman for the portfolio, helping ensure that the network’s social care messages were heard nationally.

Cllr Williams takes on the role at an important time, with the government’s social care green paper on the cusp of publication this summer.

Cllr Williams said:

“I am delighted to have been appointed as CCN spokesman for health and social care at what will be a crucial time in determining the future scope and sustainability of adult social care.

“The forthcoming publication of the green paper for care and support, along with the Comprehensive Spending Review, come at a time when adult social care is at a cross roads.

“It is widely accepted that continuing with the status quo is not an option. Collectively the government, the NHS, and local government, along with other key stakeholders and the public, must determine how best to deliver a sustainable funding solution in the short, medium and long-term.

“I am a true believer that funding reform for health and social care must be underpinned at a local level by democratic accountability and decision making.

“I look forward to making the case to government on behalf of county authorities who are faced with some of the most acute demand and financial pressures, in part as they are home to the largest and fastest growing elderly populations, of any local authority type.”

CCN Chairman Paul Carter added:

“I’m sure David will be keen to hit the ground running and play a full and active role in helping ensure that the government is fully aware of the pressures and unique circumstances facing county authorities.

“I would like to thank Colin for his hard work and commitment in his role as health and social care spokesman for CCN.”

Click here to download CCN’s report with LangBuisson last year, which outlined the pressures on county care markets.